The Siloam Springs chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is, like many other chapters, funded by donations from the community. Donations from private individuals are not altogether uncommon for the organization of veterans, but one donation this summer has been hailed as "patriotism at its finest."
This donation came from the children of the Moore family after A.J. and Kenlee Moore interviewed Siloam Springs VFW Quartermaster Frank Lee for a school project. Lee described the interview as heartwarming and said he appreciated the respect for those who are serving and have served.
Lee said the Moore family has a special connection with the armed forces and the sacrifices made by men and women in uniform because of a family member in the military. The Moore family has a cousin who was injured serving in Afghanistan, and they have seen the struggles he has faced in his rehabilitation, Lee said.
But Lee's interview with A.J. and Kenlee Moore was not the end of their involvement with the VFW. Lee said after the interview, A.J. asked what he and others could do to help the organization. Lee said he explained that the unit was self-supporting and relied on donations.
"Just to help in any way they could, know that we are a self-supporting unit," Lee said. "I guess they came up with the idea to do the little bracelets.
The little bracelets were loom band-bracelets and -anklets made by the Moore children and sold to raise support for the local VFW. Lee said the kids took the money from the sales and donated it to the VFW, totaling more than $250. The money will be used to help a veteran or a veteran family in need, Lee said.
Marla Moore, mother of A.J., Kenlee and son Barrett, said the kids' generosity was something that reminded her to search for good in others, Lee said.
"They are very sincere about helping veterans because they have been through the trial," Lee said. "I would just like to thank them for their contribution to the post and their willingness to help vets who have served in foreign countries. Thank you A.J., Kenlee and Barrett!"
General News on 07/26/2017